Understanding Corals
Understanding Corals: Anatomy, Needs, and Growth
Corals are fascinating marine animals that play a crucial role in reef ecosystems. Though they resemble plants or rocks, corals are living organisms composed of tiny creatures called polyps. These polyps form colonies that build the beautiful reef structures seen in the ocean.
Coral Anatomy
Polyps: The individual coral units with soft bodies and a central mouth surrounded by tentacles.
Calcium Carbonate Skeleton: Hard corals secrete calcium carbonate, forming the rigid structure of reefs.
Zooxanthellae: Symbiotic algae that live within coral tissues, providing energy through photosynthesis.
Tentacles: Used for capturing plankton and defending against predators.
What Corals Need to Survive and Grow
Light: Many corals rely on light for photosynthesis, requiring moderate to high-intensity lighting in reef aquariums.
Water Flow: Proper water circulation ensures oxygen exchange and the removal of waste.
Stable Water Parameters: Corals thrive in specific conditions:
Temperature: 76-80°F
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.023-1.026 SG
Calcium, Alkalinity, and Magnesium levels must be maintained for growth.
Nutrients: Corals feed on plankton and dissolved organic matter. Some also benefit from supplemental feeding like phytoplankton and amino acids.
Space: Corals can be aggressive; providing adequate spacing prevents them from harming each other.
Types of Corals
Soft Corals: Lacking a hard skeleton, these corals are easier to care for (e.g., Zoanthids, Leather Corals).
LPS (Large Polyp Stony) Corals: Feature larger polyps and require moderate care (e.g., Frogspawn, Hammer Coral).
SPS (Small Polyp Stony) Corals: More demanding and require stable conditions (e.g., Acropora, Montipora).
Final Thoughts
Corals are intricate and vital to ocean ecosystems. Understanding their anatomy and needs helps aquarists maintain healthy, thriving reef tanks. With proper care, corals can flourish, creating vibrant underwater landscapes.
